A living theory approach to investigating the need for the establishment of a VCT clinic in the Kingsway informal settlement, Ekhurhuleni

Abstract

This study was undertaken in the Kingsway informal settlement, which is situated in Ekhurhuleni on the East Rand. This is a poor community as many residents are unemployed and unable to obtain adequate healthcare especially for HIV/AIDS. The perceived high rate of HIV infection, as well as, the apparent high death rate due to AIDS was my major concern. Intervention and help were my main intention. I was motivated to embark on this study to be empowered and informed about treatment processes of HIV/AIDS. The study was intended to use living theory action research to investigate the need for establishing a Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) centre. For action in the real environment a research team was formed from volunteers. The relevant influential persons in the community were consulted and the required permission obtained to embark on the study. This was also to ensure that there was co-operation from community leaders. Proper documents, giving permission, were obtained after formal requests were made. Ethical guidelines were followed in this research. I started by stating my values before the research. During the process I showed how my values were transformed by various activities that were intended to educate me. These changes were indications of my development. At the end of the study I indicated how my initial values were improved or transformed, and what new values I gained.